2014 ZR-1 Corvette Could Have Over 700 HP

Agent009 submitted on 2/19/2013 Official Bell & Ross Timestamp: 12:20:21 PM

The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray hasn’t even hit dealerships yet, but the rumor mill is already churning on possible powerplants for the next Z06 and ZR1 high-performance models.

While most Corvette enthusiasts are more interested in the naturally aspirated Z06′s output, word is the Z06′s performance won’t be determined until the supercharged ZR1 is finalized. It is believed that the next-generation ZR1 will feature an engine that’s evolved from the LT1 V8 found in the base model C7 and could top 700 hp.

The Chevrolet Corvette has improved exponentially over the years, but it’s also become considerably more expensive: the 2013 Corvette carries a base price of $50,595, putting it out of reach for many enthusiasts.

To make America’s sports car accessible to a broader range of ‘Vette fans, Chevrolet is planning a new low-cost model known as the Corvette Coupe, according to a Motor Trend report.

In place of the 2014 Corvette Stingray’s 450-horsepower 6.2-liter LT1 V8, the Coupe will reportedly use a direct-injection 5.3-liter V8. A relative of the 5.3-liter mill that recently debuted in GM’s new-generation pickups, the engine will likely produce fewer than 400 horsepower, although mileage should be improved over the larger LT1.

Chevrolet reportedly considering fitting the Corvette Coupe with a twin-turbocharged V6, but the mill didn’t provide enough of an fuel efficiency benefit to make it to production.

Outside, a revised front fascia, front fender and rear diffuser will differentiate the Coupe from its more potent Stingray sibling (pictured above). No word on whether the Coupe will replace the standard model’s removable roof panel setup with a fixed roof, as did the C5 Corvette Hardtop.

The Corvette Coupe is expected to land in showrooms in 2015. No pricing information has been released, but look for the entry-level ‘Vette to start comfortably below $50,000.

Chevrolet revealed the 2014 Corvette Stingray convertible today at the Geneva Motor Show, featuring an all-new, fully electronic top that can be lowered remotely using the car’s key fob. The top can also be opened or closed on the go, at speeds of up to 30 mph (50 km/h).

“The convertible has been a part of the heart and soul of Corvette since the very beginning in 1953,” said Ed Welburn, GM vice president of global design. “With the all-new Corvette Stingray, we designed and developed the coupe and convertible simultaneously. As a result, the Corvette Stingray offers an open-top driving experience with no compromise in performance, technology or design.”

The Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible arrive in global markets in late 2013, with left-hand-drive models to be offered in Europe, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, Japan and Russia. Changes to Corvettes for export vary only in equipment required to accommodate a respective market’s regulations, such as lighting, headlamp washers and outside mirrors.

“It's fitting to introduce the new Stingray convertible on the global stage at Geneva, because Corvette is the face of Chevrolet the world over,” said Susan Docherty, president and managing director of Chevrolet and Cadillac Europe. “It is an icon that has long been recognized and admired even in countries where it’s never officially been offered.”

All of the performance technology and capabilities introduced on the Corvette Stingray coupe carry over to the convertible. The only structural changes are limited to accommodations for the folding top and repositioned safety belt mounts. Central to the Corvette Stingray’s driving experience is an all-new, more rigid aluminum frame structure, which is 57-percent stiffer and 99 pounds (45 kg) lighter than the current steel frame.

All models are powered by the new LT1 6.2L V-8, with an estimated 450-hp (335 kW) and 450 lb-ft of torque (610 Nm). As no structural reinforcements are required for the convertible, both models share almost identical power-to-weight ratios.

The LT1 combines several advanced technologies, including direct injection, Active Fuel Management and continuously variable valve timing to support an advanced combustion system designed to balance power and efficiency. The new Corvette Stingray is expected to improve upon the current model’s fuel economy of 13.6L/100km (EPA-estimated highway fuel economy of 26 mpg).

With the top up, the Corvette Stingray convertible is designed for a refined driving experience. A thick, three-ply fabric top, along with sound-absorbing padding and a glass rear window, contributes to a quiet cabin and premium appearance.

With the top down, the Corvette Stingray’s signature profile is further accentuated. Behind the seat backs, dual black accent panels enhance the character lines of the tonneau cover. Corvette Stingray’s signature “waterfall” design originates in the valley between the nacelles, bringing the exterior color into the interior.

Additional highlights of the all-new Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible include:

*A sculpted exterior with advanced high-intensity discharge and light-emitting diode lighting and racing-proven aerodynamics that balance low drag for efficiency and performance elements for improved stability and track capability
*An interior that offers genuine carbon fiber and aluminum trim, hand-wrapped leather materials, dual eight-inch configurable driver/infotainment screens, and two new seat choices – each featuring a lightweight magnesium frame for exceptional support
*Advanced driver technologies, including a five-position Drive Mode Selector that tailors 12 vehicle attributes to fit the driver’s environment and a new seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching that anticipates gear selections and matches engine speed for perfect shifts every time
*Lightweight materials, including a carbon fiber hood on all models and a carbon fiber removable roof panel on coupes; composite fenders, doors and rear quarter panels; carbon-nano composite underbody panels and a new aluminum frame help shift weight rearward for an optimal 50/50 weight balance that supports a world-class power-to-weight ratio
*Track-capable Z51 Performance Package, including an electronic limited-slip differential; dry-sump oiling system; integral brake, differential and transmission cooling; as well as a unique aero package that further improves high-speed stability.

“We wanted the driving experience of the Corvette to live up to the performance expectations that come with the ‘Stingray’ name,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “Because it was designed from the beginning as an open-top car, the Corvette Stingray delivers an exhilarating, connected driving experience – no matter what configuration you choose.”